Optic module cage assembly utilizing a stationary heatsink

ABSTRACT

An optic module cage assembly includes an optic module cage body configured to receive and retain one or more optic modules; a stationary heatsink fixedly attached to the optic module cage body; one or more spring members configured to bias the one or more optic modules towards the stationary heatsink when the one or more optic modules are retained in the optic module cage assembly; and one or more floating connectors configured to make electrical connections with the one or more optic modules when the optic modules are retained in the optic module cage assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present patent/applicant is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/343,762, filed Nov. 4, 2016, and entitled “OPTICMODULE CAGE ASSEMBLY UTILIZING A STATIONARY HEATSINK,” the contents ofwhich are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The proposed solution relates generally to the optical networking field.More specifically, the proposed solution relates to an optic module cageassembly that utilizes a stationary heatsink, and a plurality of opticmodule cages that utilize a common stationary heatsink. In other words,the optic module cage(s) is/are mounted to the (common) stationaryheatsink, as opposed to the associated printed circuit board(s)(PCB(s)), as is done conventionally. This decreases optical systemcomplexity and provides superior optical system cooling characteristics.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

In conventional optic shelves or racks, the optic module cages thatselectively receive and retain the optic modules are mounted directly tothe associated PCB(s) via fixed connectors, also mounted directly to theassociated PCB(s). Typically, each optic module cage and/or optic moduleis then placed in selective physical contact and thermal communicationwith a floating heatsink, such that the optic module is cooled whileinserted and in operation. This floating heatsink may be spring-loadedor the like, and a separate floating heatsink is typically required forand coupled to each optic module cage. The use of separate floatingheatsinks necessarily limits the size of each, thereby limiting thecooling effectiveness of each. This becomes problematic when, forexample, the temperature maximum for each optic module is 70 degrees C.or the like, especially for a downstream optic module that is subjectedto compounded heating from other upstream optic modules. It simplybecomes impossible to cool the optical system without utilizing morecomplex and expensive cooling systems. The use of heat pipes is notpractical, as each floating heatsink floats independently. Likewise,multiple fans and thermoelectric coolers would be required to work withthe separate floating heatsinks. Thus, what is still needed in the artis an improved methodology for cooling an optical system.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In various embodiments, the proposed solution provides an optic modulecage assembly that utilizes a stationary heatsink, and a plurality ofoptic module cages that utilize a common stationary heatsink. In otherwords, the optic module cage(s) is/are mounted to the (common)stationary heatsink, as opposed to the associated PCB(s), as is doneconventionally. This decreases optical system complexity and providessuperior optical system cooling characteristics. Each of the opticmodules is electrically coupled to the associated PCB using a floatingconnector that accommodates a degree of movement of the optic module asit engages the stationary heatsink. The use of a common stationaryheatsink to cool multiple optic modules allows a relatively large, andtherefore very effective, heatsink having a variety of shapes to beused. This common stationary heatsink may readily be thermally coupledto a unified heat pipe, an integrated fan, and/or a thermoelectriccooler. Thus, even the cooling of a downstream optic module that issubjected to compounded heating from other upstream optic modules ismade possible.

In one embodiment, an optic module cage assembly includes an opticmodule cage body configured to receive and retain one or more opticmodules; a stationary heatsink fixedly attached to the optic module cagebody; one or more spring members configured to bias the one or moreoptic modules towards the stationary heatsink when the one or more opticmodules are retained in the optic module cage body; and one or morefloating connectors configured to make electrical connections with theone or more optic modules when the optic modules are retained in theoptic module cage. The stationary heatsink can be disposed along one ormore of a top and a bottom of the optic module cage body in avertically-oriented configuration. The stationary heatsink can bedisposed along one or more of either side of the optic module cage bodyin a horizontally-oriented configuration. The stationary heatsink can bea first stationary heatsink, and the optic module cage assembly canfurther include a second stationary heatsink fixedly attached to theoptic module cage body. The optic module cage assembly can furtherinclude a floating heatsink coupled to the one or more spring members.The optic module cage assembly can further include a heat pipe thermallycoupled to the stationary heatsink; and a plurality of heatsink finsthat are thermally coupled to the heat pipe. The optic module cageassembly can further include a fan that is thermally coupled to thestationary heatsink. The optic module cage assembly can further includea thermoelectric cooler that is thermally coupled to the stationaryheatsink. The optical module cage body can have at least two opticmodules retained therein and each of the at least two optic modules isin physical contact with a portion of the stationary heatsink. Theoptical module cage body can have a plurality of optic modules in astacked and side-by-side configuration such that a first optic module isadjacent to a second optic module on a side and adjacent to a thirdoptic module on a bottom.

In another embodiment, a method of utilizing one or more optic modulesin an optic module cage assembly includes selectively inserting the oneor more optic modules in the optic module cage assembly; contacting astationary heatsink fixedly attached to the optic module cage body bythe one or more optic modules; biasing the one or more optic modulestowards the stationary heatsink when the one or more optic modules areretained in the optic module cage body; and connecting the one or moreoptic modules to respective one or more floating connectors configuredto make electrical connections with the one or more optic modules. Thestationary heatsink can be disposed along one or more of a top and abottom of the optic module cage body in a vertically-orientedconfiguration. The stationary heatsink can be disposed along one or moreof either side of the optic module cage body in a horizontally-orientedconfiguration. The stationary heatsink can be a first stationaryheatsink, and the method can further include contacting a secondstationary heatsink fixedly attached to the optic module cage body bythe one or more optic modules. The biasing can be via a floatingheatsink coupled to one or more spring members. The method can furtherinclude operating a heat pipe to provide heat from the stationaryheatsink to a plurality of heatsink fins that are thermally coupled tothe heat pipe. The method can further include operating a fan that isthermally coupled to the stationary heatsink. The method can furtherinclude operating a thermoelectric cooler that is thermally coupled tothe stationary heatsink. The optical module cage body can have at leasttwo optic modules retained therein and each of the at least two opticmodules is in physical contact with a portion of the stationaryheatsink.

In a further embodiment, an optic module cage body assembly in one ormore of a stacked configuration and a side-by-side configurationincludes an optic module cage body configured to receive and retain aplurality of optic modules; a stationary heatsink fixedly attached tothe optic module cage body; one or more spring members configured tobias the one or more optic modules towards the stationary heatsink whenthe one or more optic modules are retained in the optic module cagebody; and one or more floating connectors configured to make electricalconnections with the one or more optic modules when the optic modulesare retained in the optic module cage, wherein at least two opticmodules are adjacent to one another vertically in the stackedconfiguration and at least two optic modules are adjacent to one anotherhorizontally in the side-by-side configuration.

In one embodiment, the proposed solution provides an optic module cageassembly configured to selectively receive and retain an optic module,including: an optic module cage body configured to selectively receiveand retain the optic module; a stationary heatsink fixedly attached to aside of the optic module cage body; one or more spring members disposedopposite the stationary heatsink and configured to bias the optic moduletowards the stationary heatsink when the optic module is selectivelyinserted into the optic module cage body; and a floating connectordisposed partially within the optic module cage body and configured tomake an electrical connection with the optic module when the opticmodule is selectively inserted into the optic module cage body, whereinthe floating connector is configured to move in a constrained mannerwith respect to the optic module cage body. Optionally, the stationaryheatsink includes a protruding portion that protrudes through the sideof the optic module cage body and makes direct physical contact with theoptic module when the optic module is selectively inserted into theoptic module cage body and biased towards the stationary heatsink.Optionally, the optic module cage assembly also includes a floatingheatsink coupled to the one or more spring members. Optionally, thefloating heatsink includes a protruding portion that protrudes throughanother side of the optic module cage body and makes direct physicalcontact with the optic module when the optic module is selectivelyinserted into the optic module cage body. Optionally, the optic modulecage assembly further includes a heat pipe that is thermally coupled tothe stationary heatsink. Optionally, the optic module cage assemblystill further includes a plurality of heatsink fins that are thermallycoupled to the heat pipe. Optionally, the optic module cage assemblystill further includes a fan that is thermally coupled to the stationaryheatsink. Optionally, the optic module cage assembly still furtherincludes a thermoelectric cooler that is thermally coupled to thestationary heatsink.

In another embodiment, the proposed solution provides an optic modulecage assembly configured to selectively receive and retain a pluralityof optic modules, including: an optic module cage body configured toselectively receive and retain the plurality of optic modules; astationary heatsink fixedly attached to a side of the optic module cagebody; one or more spring members disposed opposite the stationaryheatsink and configured to bias the optic modules towards the stationaryheatsink when the optic modules are selectively inserted into the opticmodule cage body; and a plurality of floating connectors disposedpartially within the optic module cage body and configured to makeelectrical connections with the optic modules when the optic modules areselectively inserted into the optic module cage body, wherein thefloating connectors are each configured to move in a constrained mannerwith respect to the optic module cage body. Optionally, the stationaryheatsink includes a protruding portion that protrudes through the sideof the optic module cage body and makes direct physical contact with theoptic modules when the optic modules are selectively inserted into theoptic module cage body and biased towards the stationary heatsink.Optionally, the optic module cage assembly also includes one or morefloating heatsinks coupled to the one or more spring members.Optionally, the floating heatsinks each include a protruding portionthat protrudes through another side of the optic module cage body andmakes direct physical contact with an associated optic module when theoptic module is selectively inserted into the optic module cage body.Optionally, the optic module cage assembly further includes a heat pipethat is thermally coupled to the stationary heatsink. Optionally, theoptic module cage assembly still further includes a plurality ofheatsink fins that are thermally coupled to the heat pipe. Optionally,the optic module cage assembly still further includes a fan that isthermally coupled to the stationary heatsink. Optionally, the opticmodule cage assembly still further includes a thermoelectric cooler thatis thermally coupled to the stationary heatsink.

In a further embodiment, the proposed solution provides an optic modulecage assembly configured to selectively receive and retain an opticmodule, including: an optic module cage body coupled to a faceplate ofan optic shelf or rack and configured to selectively receive and retainthe optic module; a stationary heatsink fixedly attached to a side ofthe optic module cage body; one or more spring members disposed oppositethe stationary heatsink and configured to bias the optic module towardsthe stationary heatsink when the optic module is selectively insertedinto the optic module cage body; and a floating connector coupled to aprinted circuit board, disposed partially within the optic module cagebody, and configured to make an electrical connection with the opticmodule when the optic module is selectively inserted into the opticmodule cage body, wherein the floating connector is configured to movein a constrained manner with respect to the optic module cage body;wherein the optic module cage body is not fixedly secured to the printedcircuit board. Optionally, the stationary heatsink includes a protrudingportion that protrudes through the side of the optic module cage bodyand makes direct physical contact with the optic module when the opticmodule is selectively inserted into the optic module cage body andbiased towards the stationary heatsink. Optionally, the optic modulecage assembly also includes a floating heatsink coupled to the one ormore spring members. Optionally, the floating heatsink includes aprotruding portion that protrudes through another side of the opticmodule cage body and makes direct physical contact with the optic modulewhen the optic module is selectively inserted into the optic module cagebody. Optionally, the optic module cage assembly further includes a heatpipe that is thermally coupled to the stationary heatsink. Optionally,the optic module cage assembly still further includes a plurality ofheatsink fins that are thermally coupled to the heat pipe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure is illustrated and described herein withreference to the various drawings, in which like reference numbers areused to denote like system components/method steps, as appropriate, andin which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the opticmodule cage assembly of the proposed solution utilizing a stationaryheatsink and a floating connector;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of theoptic module cage assembly of the proposed solution utilizing astationary heatsink, a floating heatsink, and a floating connector;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a further embodiment of theoptic module cage assembly of the proposed solution utilizing a commonstationary heatsink in direct contact with the optic module and afloating connector;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a still further embodiment ofthe optic module cage assembly of the proposed solution utilizing acommon stationary heatsink in indirect contact with the optic modulethrough the optic module cage and a floating connector;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a still further embodiment ofthe optic module cage assembly of the proposed solution utilizing aplurality of stationary heatsinks, a plurality of floating heatsinks,and a plurality of floating connectors to accommodate a plurality ofoptic modules in a stacked or side-by-side configuration;

FIG. 6 is a perspective diagram illustrating a still further embodimentof the optic module cage assembly of the proposed solution utilizing aplurality of stationary heatsinks, a plurality of floating heatsinks,and a plurality of floating connectors to accommodate a plurality ofoptic modules in a stacked or side-by-side configuration, with a heatpipe and plurality of heatsink fins thermally coupled to one or more ofthe stationary heatsinks to enhance cooling; and

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective diagram illustrating a still furtherembodiment of the optic module cage assembly of the proposed solutionutilizing a plurality of stationary heatsinks, a plurality of floatingheatsinks, and a plurality of floating connectors to accommodate aplurality of optic modules in a stacked or side-by-side configuration,with a plurality of heat pipes and plurality of heatsink fins thermallycoupled to the plurality of stationary heatsinks to enhance cooling.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Again, in various embodiments, the proposed solution provides an opticmodule cage assembly that utilizes a stationary heatsink, and aplurality of optic module cages that utilize a common stationaryheatsink. In other words, the optic module cage(s) is/are mounted to the(common) stationary heatsink, as opposed to the associated PCB(s), as isdone conventionally. This decreases optical system complexity andprovides superior optical system cooling characteristics. Each of theoptic modules is electrically coupled to the associated PCB using afloating connector that accommodates a degree of movement of the opticmodule as it engages the stationary heatsink. The use of a commonstationary heatsink to cool multiple optic modules allows a relativelylarge, and therefore very effective, heatsink having a variety of shapesto be used. This common stationary heatsink may readily be thermallycoupled to a unified heat pipe, an integrated fan, and/or athermoelectric cooler. Thus, even the cooling of a downstream opticmodule that is subjected to compounded heating from other upstream opticmodules is made possible.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the opticmodule cage assembly 10 of the proposed solution utilizing a stationaryheatsink 12 and a floating connector 14. Specifically, the stationaryheatsink 12 is bonded or otherwise fixedly attached to the optic modulecage body 16. A portion of the stationary heatsink 12 protrudes throughthe optic module cage body 16 such that it selectively makes directphysical contact with an inserted optic module (not illustrated). Theoptic module cage body 16 includes one or more internal spring members18 that serves to bias the inserted optic module into secure contactwith the protruding portion of the stationary heatsink 12. The opticmodule cage body 16 also includes one or more gaskets that assist insecuring the optic module cage body 16 within the optic shelf or rack(not illustrated) via the associated faceplate (not illustrated). Thefloating connector 14 is disposed near the back of the optic module cagebody 16 and is permitted a degree of motion (especially up-and-downmotion), such that a secure electrical connection may be made with theinserted optic module despite it being biased by the one or moreinternal spring members 18 towards the protruding portion of thestationary heatsink 12. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art that a variety of materials, similar configurations,spring members 18 and 20, and floating connectors 14 may be used, asappropriate. For example, the stationary heatsink 12 may be disposedalong the top or bottom of the optic module cage body 16 in avertically-oriented configuration and along either side of the opticmodule cage body 16 in a horizontally-oriented configuration. Thefloating connector 14 preferably makes a flexible electrical connectionto the associated PCB (not illustrated). Advantageously, the stationaryheatsink 12 may span multiple optic module cage bodies 16/multiple opticmodules as a common stationary heatsink 12, as is described in greaterdetail herein below.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of theoptic module cage assembly 10 of the proposed solution utilizing astationary heatsink 12, a floating heatsink 22, and a floating connector14. Specifically, the stationary heatsink 12 is bonded or otherwisefixedly attached to the optic module cage body 16. A portion of thestationary heatsink 12 protrudes through the optic module cage body 16such that it selectively makes direct physical contact with an insertedoptic module (not illustrated). The floating heatsink 22 is disposedopposite the stationary heatsink 12 and includes a portion thatprotrudes through the optic module cage body 16 such that it selectivelymakes direct physical contact with the inserted optic module oppositethe stationary heatsink 12. The floating heatsink 22 is spring loaded orthe like such that it serves to bias the inserted optic module intosecure contact with the protruding portion of the stationary heatsink12. The optic module cage body 16 also includes one or more gaskets thatassist in securing the optic module cage body 16 within the optic shelfor rack (not illustrated) via the associated faceplate (notillustrated). The floating connector 14 is disposed near the back of theoptic module cage body 16 and is permitted a degree of motion(especially up-and-down motion), such that a secure electricalconnection may be made with the inserted optic module despite it beingbiased by the floating heatsink 22 towards the protruding portion of thestationary heatsink 12. Again, it will be readily apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art that a variety of materials, similarconfigurations, spring members 20, and floating connectors 14 may beused, as appropriate. For example, the stationary heatsink 12 and thefloating heatsink may be disposed interchangeably along the top orbottom of the optic module cage body 16 in a vertically-orientedconfiguration and along either side of the optic module cage body 16 ina horizontally-oriented configuration. The floating connector 14preferably makes a flexible electrical connection to the associated PCB(not illustrated). Advantageously, the stationary heatsink 12 and thefloating heatsink 22 may span multiple optic module cage bodies16/multiple optic modules as a common stationary heatsink 12 and acommon floating heatsink 22, as is described in greater detail hereinbelow.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a further embodiment of theoptic module cage assembly 10 of the proposed solution utilizing acommon stationary heatsink 12 in direct contact with an inserted opticmodule (not illustrated) and a floating connector 14. Specifically, thestationary heatsink 12 is bonded or otherwise fixedly attached to theoptic module cage body 16. A portion of the stationary heatsink 12protrudes through the optic module cage body 16 such that it selectivelymakes direct physical contact with the inserted optic module. The opticmodule cage body 16 includes one or more internal spring members 18 thatserves to bias the inserted optic module into secure contact with theprotruding portion of the stationary heatsink 12. The optic module cagebody 16 also includes one or more gaskets that assist in securing theoptic module cage body 16 within the optic shelf or rack (notillustrated) via the associated faceplate 24. In this embodiment, thestationary heatsink 12 may be thermally coupled to another heatsink orother structure 26 disposed on another side of the optic module cagebody 16 or in another location, for example. The floating connector 14is disposed near the back of the optic module cage body 16 and ispermitted a degree of motion (especially up-and-down motion), such thata secure electrical connection may be made with the inserted opticmodule despite it being biased by the one or more internal springmembers 18 towards the protruding portion of the stationary heatsink 12.Again, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artthat a variety of materials, similar configurations, spring members 18and 20, and floating connectors 14 may be used, as appropriate. Forexample, the stationary heatsink 12 and the other heatsink or otherstructure 26 may be disposed interchangeably along the top or bottom ofthe optic module cage body 16 in a vertically-oriented configuration andalong either side of the optic module cage body 16 in ahorizontally-oriented configuration. The floating connector 14preferably makes a flexible electrical connection to the associated PCB(not illustrated). Advantageously, the stationary heatsink 12 and theother heatsink or other structure 26 may span multiple optic module cagebodies 16/multiple optic modules as a common stationary heatsink 12 anda common other heatsink or other structure 26, as is described ingreater detail herein below.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a still further embodiment ofthe optic module cage assembly 10 of the proposed solution utilizing acommon stationary heatsink 12 in indirect contact with an inserted opticmodule (not illustrated) through the optic module cage 16 and a floatingconnector 14. Specifically, the stationary heatsink 12 is bonded orotherwise fixedly attached to the optic module cage body 16. Thestationary heatsink 12 is in thermal communication with the insertedoptic module through the intervening wall of the optic module cage body16. The optic module cage body 16 includes one or more internal springmembers 18 that serves to bias the inserted optic module into securecontact with the wall of the optic module cage body 16 adjacent thestationary heatsink 12. The optic module cage body 16 also includes oneor more gaskets that assist in securing the optic module cage body 16within the optic shelf or rack (not illustrated) via the associatedfaceplate 24. In this embodiment, the stationary heatsink 12 may bethermally coupled to another heatsink or other structure 26 disposed onanother side of the optic module cage body 16 or in another location,for example. The floating connector 14 is disposed near the back of theoptic module cage body 16 and is permitted a degree of motion(especially up-and-down motion), such that a secure electricalconnection may be made with the inserted optic module despite it beingbiased by the one or more internal spring members 18 towards the wall ofthe optic module cage body 16 adjacent the stationary heatsink 12.Again, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artthat a variety of materials, similar configurations, spring members 18and 20, and floating connectors 14 may be used, as appropriate. Forexample, the stationary heatsink 12 and the other heatsink or otherstructure 26 may be disposed interchangeably along the top or bottom ofthe optic module cage body 16 in a vertically-oriented configuration andalong either side of the optic module cage body 16 in ahorizontally-oriented configuration. The floating connector 14preferably makes a flexible electrical connection to the associated PCB(not illustrated). Advantageously, the stationary heatsink 12 and theother heatsink or other structure 26 may span multiple optic module cagebodies 16/multiple optic modules as a common stationary heatsink 12 anda common other heatsink or other structure 26, as is described ingreater detail herein below.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a still further embodiment ofthe optic module cage assembly 10 of the proposed solution utilizing aplurality of stationary heatsinks 12, a plurality of floating heatsinks(or spring plates) 22, and a plurality of floating connectors 14 toaccommodate a plurality of inserted optic modules (not illustrated) in astacked or side-by-side configuration. Specifically, the stationaryheatsinks 12 are bonded or otherwise fixedly attached to the opticmodule cage bodies 16. A portion of each of the stationary heatsinks 12protrudes through the associated optic module cage body 16 such that itselectively makes direct physical contact with the associated insertedoptic module. The floating heatsinks 22 are disposed adjacent to oneanother opposite the stationary heatsinks 12, and each includes aportion that protrudes through the associated optic module cage body 16such that it selectively makes direct physical contact with theassociated inserted optic module opposite the stationary heatsinks 12.The floating heatsinks 22 are biased apart and each into theirassociated optic module cage body 16 by one or more intervening springmembers 28 such that each floating heatsink 22 serves to bias theassociated inserted optic module into secure contact with the protrudingportion of the associated stationary heatsink 12. In this respect,mirror image optic module cage assemblies 10 are provided and form acollective whole. The optic module cage bodies 16 also include one ormore gaskets that assist in securing the optic module cage bodies 16within the optic shelf or rack (not illustrated) via the associatedfaceplate (not illustrated). The floating connectors 14 are disposednear the back of the optic module cage bodies 16 and are each permitteda degree of motion (especially up-and-down motion), such that a secureelectrical connection may be made with the associated inserted opticmodule despite it being biased by the associated floating heatsink 22towards the protruding portion of the associated stationary heatsink 12.Again, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artthat a variety of materials, similar configurations, spring members 20,and floating connectors 14 may be used, as appropriate. For example, thestationary heatsinks 12 and the floating heatsinks may be disposedinterchangeably along the top or bottom of the optic module cage body 16in a vertically-oriented configuration and along either side of theoptic module cage body 16 in a horizontally-oriented configuration. Thefloating connectors 14 preferably make a flexible electrical connectionto the associated PCB (not illustrated). Advantageously, the stationaryheatsinks 12 may span multiple optic module cage bodies 16/multipleoptic modules as common stationary heatsinks 12, as is described ingreater detail herein below.

FIG. 6 is a perspective diagram illustrating a still further embodimentof the optic module cage assembly 10 of the proposed solution utilizinga common stationary heatsink 12, a plurality of floating heatsinks (notillustrated), and a plurality of floating connectors 14 to accommodate aplurality of optic modules (not illustrated) in a stacked orside-by-side configuration, with a heat pipe 30 and plurality ofheatsink fins 32 thermally coupled to one or more of the commonstationary heatsinks 12 to enhance cooling. Specifically, the commonstationary heatsinks 12 are disposed about and bonded or otherwisefixedly attached to the optic module cage bodies 16. A portion of eachof the common stationary heatsinks 12 protrudes through the associatedoptic module cage body 16 such that it selectively makes direct physicalcontact with the associated inserted optic module. Alternatively, eachof the common stationary heatsinks 12 is in thermal communication withthe inserted optic modules through the intervening wall of the opticmodule cage bodies 16. The floating heatsinks are disposed adjacent toone another within and opposite the common stationary heatsinks 12, andeach includes a portion that protrudes through the associated opticmodule cage body 16 such that it selectively makes direct physicalcontact with the associated inserted optic module opposite the commonstationary heatsinks 12. The floating heatsinks are biased apart andeach into their associated optic module cage body 16 by one or moreintervening spring members (not illustrated) such that each floatingheatsink serves to bias the associated inserted optic module into securecontact with the protruding portion of the associated common stationaryheatsink 12, for example. In this respect, mirror image optic modulecage assemblies 10 are provided and form a collective whole. The opticmodule cage bodies 16 also include one or more external spring members(not illustrated) that assist in securing the optic module cage bodies16 within the optic shelf or rack (not illustrated) via the associatedfaceplate (not illustrated). The floating connectors 14 are disposednear the back of the optic module cage bodies 16 and are each permitteda degree of motion (especially up-and-down motion), such that a secureelectrical connection may be made with the associated inserted opticmodule despite it being biased by the associated floating heatsinktowards the protruding portion of the associated common stationaryheatsink 12. As is illustrated, the optic module cage assembly 10 isdisposed in a recess 34 manufactured into the associated PCB 36, asopposed to being fixedly secured to the PCB 36. A plurality of heatsinkfins 32 are mounted on the PCB 36 and thermally coupled to one or moreof the common stationary heatsinks 12 via a prismatic heat pipe 30, suchas a flat heat pipe, which may be disposed in one or more recesses 38manufactured into the one or more common stationary heatsinks 12. Again,it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that avariety of materials, similar configurations, spring members, andfloating connectors 14 may be used, as appropriate. For example, thefloating connectors 14 preferably make a flexible electrical connectionto the associated PCB 36. Advantageously, the common stationaryheatsinks 12 span multiple optic module cage bodies 16/multiple opticmodules.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective diagram illustrating a still furtherembodiment of the optic module cage assembly 10 of the proposed solutionutilizing a plurality of common stationary heatsinks 12, a plurality offloating heatsinks 22, and a plurality of floating connectors 14 toaccommodate a plurality of optic modules (not illustrated) in a stackedor side-by-side configuration, with a plurality of heat pipes 30 andplurality of heatsink fins 32 thermally coupled to the plurality ofcommon stationary heatsinks 12 to enhance cooling. Specifically, thecommon stationary heatsinks 12 are disposed about and bonded orotherwise fixedly attached to the optic module cage bodies 16. A portionof each of the common stationary heatsinks 12 protrudes through theassociated optic module cage body 16 such that it selectively makesdirect physical contact with the associated inserted optic module.Alternatively, each of the common stationary heatsinks 12 is in thermalcommunication with the inserted optic modules through the interveningwall of the optic module cage bodies 16. The floating heatsinks 22 aredisposed adjacent to one another within and opposite the commonstationary heatsinks 12, and each includes a portion that protrudesthrough the associated optic module cage body 16 such that itselectively makes direct physical contact with the associated insertedoptic module opposite the common stationary heatsinks 12. The floatingheatsinks 22 are biased apart and each into their associated opticmodule cage body 16 by one or more intervening spring members 28 suchthat each floating heatsink 22 serves to bias the associated insertedoptic module into secure contact with the protruding portion of theassociated common stationary heatsink 12, for example. In this respect,mirror image optic module cage assemblies 10 are provided and form acollective whole. The optic module cage bodies 16 also include one ormore external spring members (not illustrated) that assist in securingthe optic module cage bodies 16 within the optic shelf or rack (notillustrated) via the associated faceplate (not illustrated). Thefloating connectors 14 are disposed near the back of the optic modulecage bodies 16 and are each permitted a degree of motion (especiallyup-and-down motion), such that a secure electrical connection may bemade with the associated inserted optic module despite it being biasedby the associated common floating heatsink 22 towards the protrudingportion of the associated common stationary heatsink 12. The opticmodule cage assembly 10 is disposed in a recess (not illustrated)manufactured into the associated PCB (not illustrated), as opposed tobeing fixedly secured to the PCB. A plurality of heatsink fins 32 aremounted on the PCB and thermally coupled to one or more of the commonstationary heatsinks 12 via a prismatic heat pipe 30, such as a flatheat pipe, which may be disposed in one or more recesses 38 manufacturedinto the one or more common stationary heatsinks 12. Again, it will bereadily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that a variety ofmaterials, similar configurations, spring members, and floatingconnectors 14 may be used, as appropriate. For example, the floatingconnectors 14 preferably make flexible electrical connection to theassociated PCB. Advantageously, the common stationary heatsinks 12 spanmultiple optic module cage bodies 16/multiple optic modules.

Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and describedherein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examplesthereof, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart that other embodiments and examples may perform similar functionsand/or achieve like results. All such equivalent embodiments andexamples are within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, arecontemplated thereby, and are intended to be covered by the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An optic module cage assembly comprising: anoptic module cage body configured to receive and retain one or moreoptic modules; a stationary heatsink fixedly attached to the opticmodule cage body; one or more spring members configured to bias the oneor more optic modules towards the stationary heatsink when the one ormore optic modules are retained in the optic module cage assembly; andone or more floating connectors configured to make electricalconnections with the one or more optic modules when the optic modulesare retained in the optic module cage assembly.
 2. The optic module cageassembly of claim 1, wherein the stationary heatsink is disposed alongone or more of a top and a bottom of the optic module cage body in avertically-oriented configuration.
 3. The optic module cage assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the stationary heatsink is disposed along one or moreof either side of the optic module cage body in a horizontally-orientedconfiguration.
 4. The optic module cage assembly of claim 1, wherein thestationary heatsink is a first stationary heatsink, and furthercomprising: a second stationary heatsink fixedly attached to the opticmodule cage body.
 5. The optic module cage assembly of claim 1, furthercomprising: a floating heatsink coupled to the one or more springmembers.
 6. The optic module cage assembly of claim 1, furthercomprising: a heat pipe thermally coupled to the stationary heatsink;and a plurality of heatsink fins that are thermally coupled to the heatpipe.
 7. The optic module cage assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a fan that is thermally coupled to the stationary heatsink.
 8. The opticmodule cage assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a thermoelectriccooler that is thermally coupled to the stationary heatsink.
 9. Theoptic module cage assembly of claim 1, wherein the optical module cagebody has at least two optic modules retained therein and each of the atleast two optic modules is in physical contact with a portion of thestationary heatsink.
 10. The optic module cage assembly of claim 1,wherein the optical module cage body has a plurality of optic modules ina stacked and side-by-side configuration such that a first optic moduleis adjacent to a second optic module on a side and adjacent to a thirdoptic module on a bottom.
 11. A method of utilizing one or more opticmodules in an optic module cage assembly, the method comprising:selectively inserting the one or more optic modules in the optic modulecage assembly; contacting a stationary heatsink fixedly attached to anoptic module cage body by the one or more optic modules; biasing the oneor more optic modules towards the stationary heatsink when the one ormore optic modules are retained in the optic module cage assembly; andconnecting the one or more optic modules to respective one or morefloating connectors configured to make electrical connections with theone or more optic modules.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein thestationary heatsink is disposed along one or more of a top and a bottomof the optic module cage body in a vertically-oriented configuration.13. The method of claim 11, wherein the stationary heatsink is disposedalong one or more of either side of the optic module cage body in ahorizontally-oriented configuration.
 14. The method of claim 11, whereinthe stationary heatsink is a first stationary heatsink, and furthercomprising: contacting a second stationary heatsink fixedly attached tothe optic module cage body by the one or more optic modules.
 15. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the biasing is via a floating heatsinkcoupled to one or more spring members.
 16. The method of claim 11,further comprising: operating a heat pipe to couple heat from thestationary heatsink to a plurality of heatsink fins that are thermallycoupled to the heat pipe.
 17. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising: operating a fan that is thermally coupled to the stationaryheatsink.
 18. The method of claim 11, further comprising: operating athermoelectric cooler that is thermally coupled to the stationaryheatsink.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein the optical module cageassembly has at least two optic modules retained therein and each of theat least two optic modules is in physical contact with a portion of thestationary heatsink.
 20. An optic module cage assembly in one or more ofa stacked configuration and a side-by-side configuration, the opticmodule cage body assembly comprising: an optic module cage bodyconfigured to receive a plurality of optic modules; a stationaryheatsink fixedly attached to the optic module cage body; one or morespring members configured to bias the one or more optic modules towardsthe stationary heatsink when the one or more optic modules are retainedin the optic module cage assembly; and one or more floating connectorsconfigured to make electrical connections with the one or more opticmodules when the optic modules are retained in the optic moduleassembly, wherein at least two optic modules are adjacent to one anothervertically in the stacked configuration and at least two optic modulesare adjacent to one another horizontally in the side-by-sideconfiguration.